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According to the AOTA

“Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.” Visit AOTA’s website to learn more.

Occupational Therapists & Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational therapy services are provided by occupational therapists (OT) and occupational therapy assistants (OTA). A Master’s degree or higher in occupational therapy is required to be a Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR). An Associate degree is required to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Click here to learn more about pursuing a career in occupational therapy.

Career Outlook

Students today can look forward to dynamic careers working in multiple settings with people of all ages. The demand for occupational therapy services is strong. Employment for occupational therapy is expected to grow much faster than the average career within the next decade. For current information on salaries and job outlook, please visit the websites for the United States Bureau of Labor (search for "occupational therapy") and the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Tasks of an OT/OTA

Depending on an OT/OTA's employer or work setting, his or her tasks may include:

Supporting the growth and development of babies born prematurely

Creating learning environments for children with physical or cognitive needs

Providing activities to build self-esteem in individuals recovering from drug or alcohol abuse

Engaging individuals with mental health diagnoses in dynamic and function-based group programming

Adapting home environments for people dealing with the effects of illness or injury